Propagating Azaleas, Camellias and Boxwoods
These choice shrubs can be rooted by taking cuttings in June and early July. Make cuttings from new wood that grew this season, using about three inches of tip growth. Slant base of cuttings, just beneath a growth bud. Remove leaves from lower half. For speedier rooting, treat base of cutting with Roottone. Plunge cuttings into sandy soil in a cool shady place, inserting up to leaf level. Keep sand moist at all times. Small plants may be left undisturbed for several seasons, or the new plants can be moved in the fall. A light winter mulch such as pine needles is advisable. This also is prime time to make cuttings of such soft-wood plants as coleus, geranium and begonia. Place these in a box of sand. Keep moist but not soaked. These make good indoor winter potted plants.